A West Sussex vet has been shortlisted for the British Veterinary Association’s Young Vet of the Year Award 2023.
Early career vet Rebecca Hampson is one of three finalists, alongside Henry Lamb and Camilla Church, competing for the prestigious award, which celebrates vets in the first stages of their professional career making a significant impact and is sponsored by Zoetis.
The judging panel, comprising BVA president Anna Judson, RCVS president Sue Paterson, national veterinary lead ruminant and equine at Zoetis UK Ally Ward, and last year’s award winner Hannah Hunt, selected the finalists.
The selection was based on their inspirational work, which includes supporting clients and colleagues; providing outstanding and consistent care for patients; inspiring others and giving back to their community; championing causes in the profession; and going above and beyond the normal call of duty.
Vet Rebecca Hampson, based in West Sussex, is nominated for her work co-founding Veterinary Education Malawi. The animal welfare charity provides free veterinary services to low-income communities, as well as practical tuition and educational support to the first and only vet school in Malawi, the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), and to para-vets who currently provide the majority of veterinary care in the country.
Rebecca graduated from the University of Bristol in 2015 and after two years in small animal practice, completed an MSc in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law. This was part-time, distance learning, enabling her to volunteer in Malawi – a trip that would change her life and inspire her to set up Veterinary Education Malawi.
Rebecca, who now splits her time between West Sussex and Malawi, secured funding to develop a clinical skills lab at LUANAR. She has also implemented an annual equine teaching week for third and fourth-year vet students. Rebecca has treated more than 700 dogs and donkeys in Malawi since 2021.
Rebecca said: “I am so excited to have been shortlisted. It has been an incredibly busy but rewarding few years so this is a really welcome surprise.
“I really hope it will help to raise awareness of our mission in Malawi and encourage other vets to consider using their degree and skills to volunteer abroad.”
On behalf of the judges, BVA president Anna Judson said: “BVA’s Young Vet of the Year showcases exceptional vets from across the UK making an invaluable contribution to the profession.
“This year, we have been blown away by all the incredible nominations, but these three young vets really stood out for their contribution to their fields and their commitment to their unique causes and passions.
“Congratulations to all of the finalists – you are a credit to the veterinary profession and we know you have bright futures ahead of you.”
Oya Canbas, Zoetis UK general manager, said: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who submitted nominations, shedding light on the remarkable contributions of these emerging leaders in veterinary care.
“The selection process was undoubtedly challenging, and we commend our esteemed panel of judges for their diligent efforts in evaluating each nominee.
“We eagerly anticipate the reveal of this year’s recipient and Zoetis looks forward to celebrating the accomplishments of these inspiring young professionals.
“We are proud and committed to supporting and celebrating the next generation of veterinary leaders. The Young Vet of the Year Award is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of passionate and skilled professionals who shape the future of veterinary care.”
The winner of BVA Young Vet of the Year will be announced on 16 November at BVA’s Gala Dinner, which takes place during the London Vet Show. They will receive a prize package, which includes £1,000, a year’s free BVA membership, a mentoring/engagement opportunity with sponsor Zoetis and career development opportunities.
